LIVE

De De Mouse

Here’s some unsolicited advice for De De Mouse — whatever you’ve done to capture the ears of promoters, keep on doing it.

In the past eight months, Japanese concert promoter Smash has invited the Tokyo electronic artist to perform at 2008’s Asagiri Jam and ’09’s Fuji Rock Festival, and sent him and three other Tokyo bands to Britain for the 100% Genki tour. Organized by Smash and Strummerville, a charity in memory of legendary Clash frontman Joe Strummer which helps aspiring musicians, the 10-date jaunt allowed Daisuke Endo, better known as De De Mouse, to showcase his flourishing skills to enthusiastic, appreciative crowds throughout the country.

Making what he describes on his MySpace site as “Japanese f-ckin’ bizarre dance music,” De De Mouse first began performing in 2005. In 2007, he released his “Tide of Stars” debut through indie imprint ExT Recordings. It quickly attracted attention and sold in excess of 30,000 copies, paving the way for a jump to the majors for last year’s “Sunset Girls.” In February, “Sunset Girls Remixes & More” was issued with reworked songs from his sophomore effort by the likes of U.K. postmodern pop hipsters The Go! Team and Canadian IDM act I am Robot and Proud, along with a live DVD.

In concert, De De Mouse uses a laptop and a keyboard to re-create his uplifting, occasionally childlike electro-pop. Performing both solo and backed by a three-piece band, visuals are often projected on video screens behind him to boost the psychedelic elements in his catchy, cosmic melodies. In addition to his appearance at Fuji Rock in July, De De Mouse will close out his summer shows with a set at Sapporo’s Magical Camp festival. His music is perfectly suited for sunny, midafternoon grooving. Let’s hope Mother Nature smiles down on audiences with clear skies to facilitate this.

De De Mouse begins his summer tour on June 19 at Kitazawa Town Hall, Tokyo and finishes on August 29 at Sapporo Teine Highland. For full tour information, visit www.dedemouse.com.